Ripley is converting the site to Louis Toussaud's Waxworks, with a new canopy and signage. Ripley's Moving Theater 3D will be in an adjoining part of the Art Moderne-style structure at 301 Alamo Plaza.

Commissioners supported staff's recommendation to eliminate two canopy signs that they said were unnecessary. Ripley officials said the signs should be permitted, since the two businesses each was below the 50-square-foot limit on total signage allowed in Alamo Plaza.

Commissioners especially objected to plans to alter low marble partitions in the facade, and to install overhead doors that some referred to as “garage doors.” They were unmoved by the arguments of Ripley's design team that similar doors already exist in and near the plaza.

In other action, the commission approved partial demolition of a house in the Five Points area near downtown that may date to the late 1800s. The owner of the house at 1022 N. Flores St. said he began razing its walls last year, not knowing it was a designated landmark.

Commissioners said the case is like many that have occurred. The Office of Historic Preservation is trying to educate real estate professionals and code enforcement officers on identifying designated structures.

The panel directed the owner to save and stabilize the house's facade.

The commission also:

Supported historic designation of a circa-1910 East Side bungalow at 810 Florida St. and a 1920s West Side commercial structure at 2119 El Paso St., that are threatened with demolition.

Approved design changes to the Broadway Lofts, part of the long-delayed 1221 Broadway project, to include first-floor office and retail space, with rental units above.

Endorsed plans for the Beacon Hill Linear Park, running several blocks on drainage easements southeast of Interstate 10 and Hildebrand Avenue. The city park will include a walking trail, picnic benches, grills, a basketball court and a natural playground.

Supported extensive renovations at the Healy-Murphy Center downtown. The school for at-risk teens first opened in 1888.